Plateau à thé

Origin: The wooden Gongfu tea tray, originating from China, has been an integral part of Chinese tea culture for centuries. It has its roots deeply embedded in the traditional Gongfu tea ceremony, which emphasizes the art of brewing tea with precision and elegance. Historically, these trays were crafted from various types of wood, with each region boasting its unique styles and craftsmanship.

Purpose: The primary purpose of the Gongfu tea tray is to facilitate the Gongfu tea brewing process. It serves as a platform for holding the teapot, teacups, and tea leaves during the brewing ritual. Additionally, it features a built-in drainage system or removable basin to collect excess water and tea spills, ensuring a clean and tidy tea-making environment. Beyond its practical functionality, the tea tray embodies the spirit of mindfulness and reverence for tea, enhancing the overall tea-drinking experience.

Variety of Styles: Gongfu tea trays come in various styles, reflecting the diverse cultural influences and regional aesthetics within China. Some common styles include:

  1. Traditional Wooden Tray: Crafted from high-quality wood such as bamboo, rosewood, or ebony, these trays feature elegant designs and meticulous craftsmanship. They often showcase intricate carvings or engravings, adding a touch of artistic flair to the tea ceremony.
  2. Portable Travel Tray: Designed for on-the-go tea enthusiasts, portable Gongfu tea trays are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for travel or outdoor tea gatherings. They are very portable.
  3. Modern Minimalist Tea Tray: In order to cater to modern tastes, modern Gongfu tea trays adopt stylish and minimalist designs, incorporating materials such as stainless steel or stone, made into different patterned designs, generally with the vintage style of ancient Chinese doors and windows, these trays put functionality and simplicity at the forefront, appealing to tea enthusiasts in pursuit of streamlined aesthetics.
  4. Customized or Personalized Tray: Some tea lovers opt for customized Gongfu tea trays tailored to their preferences and specifications. These trays may bear unique engravings, motifs, or personalized touches, making them cherished heirlooms or gifts among tea connoisseurs.

Overall, Gongfu tea trays not only serve as essential tea utensils but also embody the rich cultural heritage and artistry of Chinese tea ceremonies.